A Manchester City source has revealed the ‘whispers’ they have heard about Pep Guardiola amid the club’s alleged 115 breaches of Premier League rules.
The 115 charges were levelled at Man City by the Premier League in February 2023.
A hearing into those charges began last month, with a verdict expected to be announced around the end of the season.
Severe fines, points deductions or relegation are among the potential punishments for the reigning English champions if they are found guilty.
The Premier League’s decision could come around the same time when Guardiola‘s existing deal expires.
His contract as manager of Man City expires in June 2025.
The 53-year-old has been at the helm since July 2016 and has completely transformed the club’s fortunes.
He has inspired the Blues to an impressive six Premier League titles and the prestigious Champions League in their treble-winning campaign.
It had been decided at the end of last season that Guardiola would leave next summer when his contract ends.
However, according to a source via The Athletic, Man City will continue to try to change his mind and there have been ‘whispers’ he is considering it.
Per the report, as those close to him always say, “With Pep, you never know.”
Pep Guardiola and Khaldoon Al Mubarak celebrate Manchester City’s Premier League triumph. Image: Getty
Ahead of the new season, Guardiola excited fans by talking like a man who was ready to pen a new deal.
But when he was asked about a banner made by fans asking him to stay at the club, it was not filled with the same level of hope.
“They have to bring me the bill,” he said. “I will pay, I don’t want them to spend money for that. What can I say? Thank you so much. I fell in love since the first day I was here. What’s going to happen is going to happen.”
Asked about the need to defend Man City these days amid the ongoing legal battle with the Premier League, he added: “I am part of this club, deep inside my bones.
“I’m part of this club, not just the manager. I love this club and it will always be this way. It cannot be different (given) the way they treat me from day one. It is impossible.”